Anthony Volpe anticipated some friendly postgame ribbing from his New Jersey friends after his first major league encounter with Jack Leiter, his former Delbarton High School teammate. Their meeting on the field was a noteworthy event, not just for its personal significance but also for the competitive edge it brought. Volpe’s Yankees faced Leiter’s Rangers, marking the first time these former teammates would go head-to-head in a big league game.
In the matchup, Volpe emerged victorious, with his performance contributing to the Yankees’ 8-4 win over the Rangers. Volpe made an impact right away, getting a single on Leiter’s first pitch and coming close to hitting a home run in his subsequent at-bat, though his drive was caught at the warning track. Despite the Yankees’ strong showing, Leiter managed to keep them to just two runs through the first five innings before allowing three more in the sixth.
Volpe, who went 1-for-4 in the game, found the experience of facing Leiter to be especially meaningful. He described Leiter’s pitching as “electric” and reflected on the significance of their matchup, which was a culmination of their shared history. The two had previously faced each other only in informal settings, such as live batting practice during the offseason and the COVID shutdown, making this game a full-circle moment for them.
After the game, Volpe and Leiter shared a lighthearted moment, though they avoided making eye contact to keep things professional. The matchup was more than just a game for them; it was a reflection of their journey from high school teammates to major league players. Despite the competitive nature of the game, their camaraderie and mutual respect were evident.
Leiter’s father, former Yankee Al Leiter, was present at the game, adding to the personal significance of the encounter. Volpe noted that many of their friends from back home would have loved to be there but couldn’t make it due to work commitments. If it weren’t for real-world obligations, he joked, they would have all found a way to attend, emphasizing the strong support network they still have despite their busy schedules.
